Internet: Unmasking The Dark Reality A Journey into Subconscious Consumption

In a world where the internet was meant to bridge distances and foster connections, it has also paved the way for dark corners to thrive. The initial intentions were noble – connecting like-minded individuals and solving global issues through communication. However, lurking beneath the surface are problems like the dark net, the dark web, malware, and scams, which have intertwined with our everyday lives. But what’s more alarming is the subtle impact the internet has on our subconscious, influencing our decision-making without our awareness. This is the true dark reality that we must unveil.

Internet Penetration

The internet has permeated every corner of the globe, According to the World Population Review, India has the second-largest internet user base in the world, with over 780 million users. This number is projected to reach 1.2 billion by 2050. The internet economy in India is also growing rapidly and is expected to reach $5 trillion by 2030.

A study by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) found that the average Indian internet user spends around 7.3 hours per day online. This time is spent on a variety of activities, including social media, shopping, gaming, and watching videos.

Understanding Our Internet Consumption

The majority of internet usage in India revolves around messaging, social media, and consuming online content, particularly short videos. Reports from Axis India revealed that the most consumed over-the-top (OTT) platforms are Hotstar, Jio Cinema, Amazon Prime, and Netflix. This digital consumption trend is particularly popular among individuals aged 18 to 37.

The rise of short video platforms in India is astounding, with consumption rates currently at a staggering 77%. A report by Moj titled “Getting Young India Right” sheds light on a surprising insight – these short videos and social media heavily influence the purchase decisions of 60% of young Indians within this demographic. It’s a startling revelation that what seems like personal choice is often influenced by the content we consume.

Unmasking the Unseen Effects

The growing consumption of short videos is not without its consequences. It’s contributing to our dwindling patience and attention spans, causing us to scroll mindlessly rather than engage deeply with content. This shift in consumption habits is blurring the lines between morality and ethics, masquerading as personal liberty while actually leading us towards negative liberty – a state of freedom that hampers growth.

Moreover, our impatience is negatively impacting our long-term stability and patience. As we become more materialistic and driven by instant gratification, we risk losing our rationality and depth of character. This culture of consumerism fosters an animalistic spirit that is detrimental to both society and the environment.

Navigating the Path Forward

Abandoning internet consumption is not the solution – it’s a powerful tool that has connected the world into a global village. However, it’s imperative to use it consciously and mindfully to maintain its status as a blessing. Raising awareness about the influence of internet content on our decisions is essential.

Selecting content that enriches our personality rather than numbing our minds is crucial. Choosing to shop based on need rather than feeding our greed can help us shift away from materialism. To break free from the cycle of unconscious consumption, it’s important to track and evaluate the time we spend on the internet daily.

Lastly, embracing the concept of delayed gratification can be transformative. By exercising patience and resisting the lure of instant rewards, we can regain control over our lives and make decisions that are rooted in rationality and long-term thinking.

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The Internet: A Double-edged Sword

Dark sides of the internet in India:

• Cybercrime: The internet has made it easier for criminals to commit crimes, such as hacking, phishing, and identity theft. In 2022, the Indian government reported that cybercrime had cost the country over $1 trillion.
• Online harassment and abuse: The internet has made it easier for people to harass and abuse others anonymously. This can have a devastating impact on the victims and can lead to depression, anxiety, and even suicide.
• Fake news and misinformation: The internet has made it easier for people to spread fake news and misinformation. This can have a negative impact on public discourse and can lead to people making decisions based on false information.
• Addiction: The internet can be addictive, and people who spend too much time online can experience problems such as sleep deprivation, social isolation, and mental health issues.
• Cyberbullying: Cyberbullying is the use of electronic communication to bully a person, typically by sending messages of an intimidating or threatening nature. Cyberbullying can have a serious impact on the victim and can lead to depression, anxiety, and even suicide.

It is important to be aware of the dark side of the internet and to take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Tips for staying safe online:

• Be careful about what information you share online.
• Be wary of clicking on links in emails or on social media.
• Use strong passwords and change them regularly.
• Be aware of the signs of cyberbullying and report it if you see it.
• Talk to your children about the risks of the internet and how to stay safe.

By taking these steps, you can help to protect yourself and your loved ones from the dark side of the internet.

Conclusion

The internet is a remarkable gift that has revolutionized the way we connect and learn. Yet, within its vast expanse lies a darker reality – one that influences our thoughts, decisions, and actions without our knowledge. India’s internet boom is a testament to its power, but it’s up to us to ensure that this power is harnessed for positive growth. By being conscious consumers of the digital world, we can reclaim our agency and transform the internet into a force for good, both in our lives and in the world at large.

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